Something happened recently with a neighbor that left me reflecting.  The kind of situation where snap judgments were made about my child without really knowing him.

Let me be clear: my child isn’t perfect. He makes mistakes. He struggles sometimes to navigate a world that wasn’t built with his neurodivergent needs in mind. But what’s truly exhausting is not just advocating in schools or IEP meetings; but, it’s having to keep advocating in spaces that should feel safe, like our own neighborhood. 💔

Have you ever felt that? Like you just want to stand up and scream:

👉🏼 “Please, take a moment. Get to know my child…their strengths, their unique abilities, their incredible empathy…before labeling them or assuming the worst because they don’t behave like a ‘typical’ adolescent.”

With all the tech we have today, it’s easier than ever to send a message, but sadly it’s also easier to send one laced with judgment or bias; instead of choosing curiosity, kindness, or an open conversation.

I’m not saying my son is without fault. He’s human. But he’s also full of compassion, care, and the kind of empathy the world needs more of. And that deserves to be seen.

To every parent walking a similar path: I see you. I feel that bone-deep exhaustion from constantly fighting to help the world understand your child. 💛

But we can’t give up. We have to keep showing up. Keep raising our voices. Keep clearing the path so that one day, our kids, and others like them, walk through a world a little more open, a little more kind, and a whole lot more understanding.

Thanks for being here!
– Carolyn
Always an FTC Warrior